Geography

Afghanistan covers an area of approximately 652,000 square kilometers, making it the 41st largest country in the world. The geography of Afghanistan is dominated by mountains and highlands, with the Hindu Kush mountain range running through the country. The highest peak in Afghanistan is Nowshak, which stands at 7,485 meters. In addition to the mountains, several major rivers flow through Afghanistan, including the Amu Darya, the Hari Rud, and the Kabul River. The country also has several large lakes, including Lake Helmand and Lake Qargha.

Climate

Afghanistan has an arid climate, with significant variations in temperature and precipitation depending on the region. The weather is influenced by the country’s location in the heart of the Asian continent and the country’s high elevation and mountainous terrain. Generally, Afghanistan has hot summers and cold winters. During the summer, temperatures can reach 40°C (104°F) in some parts of the country. During winter, temperatures drop, too, the freezing points, with snowfall expected in mountainous areas. Precipitation in Afghanistan is generally low throughout the country, except in some northeast places and the central highlands. Most country areas receive less than 300 millimeters (12 inches) of precipitation annually, and droughts are common. Afghanistan is also known for natural disasters such as landslides, and floods can sometimes devastate communities and infrastructure.

Population

According to the World Bank, Afghanistan has an estimated population of around 39 million. Afghanistan’s people are diverse, with various ethnic groups and languages represented. Pashtuns bring up the largest ethnic group and comprise approximately 38% of the population in Afghanistan, with other groups such as the Tajiks (25%), Hazaras (9%), and Uzbeks (6%). There are also smaller communities of Turkmen, Baloch, Nuristani, and other ethnic groups. The population of Afghanistan is relatively young, with a median age of around 19 years. However, the country has a relatively high infant mortality rate, and life expectancy is low, at approximately 64 years.

Languages

Afghanistan is a diverse country with many different languages spoken by its people. The official languages of Afghanistan country are Dari & Pashto. Dari is a form of Persian spoken by about half of the population, while Pashto is said by about 35%. Many other languages exist, including Uzbek, Turkmen, Balochi, Pashayi, and Nuristani. Many of these languages are regional, and small communities speak them within the country. English is also widely spoken in Afghanistan, particularly in urban areas.

Religion

Afghanistan is Islamic, with most of its population following Sunni Islam. Around 85-90% of Afghans are Sunni Muslims, while the remaining 10-15% are Shia Muslims. Islam was introduced to Afghanistan during the 7th-century Arab conquests and has been the country’s dominant religion since then. Afghanistan has also been influenced by other religions and belief systems, including Buddhism and Hinduism, particularly during the ancient period of the region’s history.

Government

Afghanistan is an Islamic republic with a presidential system of government. The country adopted its current Constitution in 2004, following the fall of the Taliban regime in 2001. The President of Afghanistan is the head of state. The President’s post is for the five-year popular vote and is eligible for re-election for one additional term. The President appoints cabinet ministers and other high-ranking officials, subject to the approval of the National Assembly. The National Assembly of Afghanistan is a bicameral body consisting of the House of the People (Wolesi Jirga) and the House of Elders (Meshrano Jirga). The judiciary in Afghanistan is independent of the executive and legislative branches of government. The highest Court in Afghanistan is the Supreme Court, which is responsible for constitutional interpretation and dispute resolution in the government branches.

Economy

Afghanistan’s economy heavily depends on agriculture, with around 80% of the population engaged in farming. Its dominant natural resources include copper, iron ore, and lithium minerals. However, instability and conflict have hindered the country’s economic development.

Culture

Afghanistan has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Persian, Indian, and Central Asian cultures. The country is known for its traditional music, dance, and poetry. The national sport is buzkashi, which involves horse riders competing to place a goat carcass in a goal.

Recent History

Afghanistan has experienced decades of conflict, including a Soviet invasion in the 1980s and a civil war in the 1990s. As per the 2001 attack, the United States led a military coalition that overthrew the Taliban government, which had provided a haven for Al-Qaeda. Since then, Afghanistan has undergone conflict with the Taliban insurgency and has experienced political instability and violence.